Friends for Survival(a national outreach program for survivors of suicide loss)
1-800-646-7322

“We need to make it ok to talk about
mental health and suicide.”

What is a Suicide Loss Survivor?

Sometimes referred to as a suicide survivor or survivor of suicide loss, a survivor is someone who is directly affected when there is a death by suicide. Research indicates that there are at least six people that are traumatized when someone dies by suicide. Because of the stigma associated with suicide, it is not uncommon for survivors to struggle with guilt, shame, and anger in addition to the grief of loss of a loved one. People are often unsure of how to reach out and support survivors or may avoid them altogether out of their own discomfort. But there is “A Safe Place.”

What is "A Safe Place"?

“A Safe Place” is a free, confidential, and anonymous peer-facilitated support group for those who have lost a friend, loved one, peer, colleague, student, or client to suicide. It’s a safe place to talk, be silent, listen, share, or grieve the loss of someone who has died by suicide. Meetings are closed (include only other suicide survivors).

Meetings are held on Monday evenings in Keene.

What Are The Samaritans?

The Samaritans is a resource to provide information about suicide; to educate others and raise awareness about suicide, and; to provide support to suicide survivors and those considering suicide. While referral to a licensed mental health provider or therapist is always the best option, there are those who are uncomfortable in traditional therapeutic environments or who cannot afford treatment. Those struggling with depression or thoughts of suicide may just need someone to listen, without judgement, and who can refer them to other support services.

The Samaritans Keene chapter was founded in 1981 by a local family, who lost their son to suicide. Samaritan volunteers answer confidential, anonymous crisis hotlines for people that are lonely, isolated depressed or suicidal.

What Kinds of Services are Available?

We offer a weekly, confidential support group, “A Safe Place,” to those who’ve lost a friend or loved one to suicide; and provide education trainings and programs for the community. We offer meaningful volunteer and internship opportunities. We never charge for any of our programs or services.

The DSM-5 proposes that Suicidal Behavior Disorder is its own illness, rather than a symptom of other illnesses. Criteria for a diagnosis includes having made a serious suicide attempt in the past 2 years, attempting suicide during a clear mental state (i.e. not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, not delirious or confused), and making a suicide attempt that is not ideologically-motivated (ex. religious or political motives).